Ticks are common throughout the world and about 900 species are known to exist. Two families of ticks are present in Europe: the Ixodidae, also known as hard ticks because of the hard shield on their back, and the Argasidae, or soft ticks, which lack such shield.

Ticks are extremely common across Europe, particularly in temperate and forested regions. The most prevalent species is Ixodes ricinus, commonly known as the sheep tick or castor bean tick. They are found in high numbers in Central, Northern, and Eastern Europe, especially in countries like Germany, Austria, Sweden, and the Baltic states. These ticks are active whenever temperatures rise above 7°C (45°F), meaning their "season" now extends from early spring through late autumn due to milder winters. Ticks in Europe are significant health vectors, as a high percentage carry Lyme disease (Borreliosis) and the more severe Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE). In 2026, public health campaigns in Europe strongly emphasize "tick checks" after any outdoor activity in tall grass or woodland. Many European residents receive a TBE vaccine as a standard precaution. If you are hiking in the Alps or the Black Forest, wearing long trousers tucked into socks and using specialized repellents is considered essential practice.